How to experience local in Seattle, rain or shine

How to experience local in Seattle, rain or shine

Think Seattle’s all rainy weather and coffee shops? You’re not totally wrong – it’s got plenty of both those things – but the Emerald City is also so much more. And dreary or sunny, morning, noon or night, we’ve got some locally approved destinations that are perfect for your upcoming trip.

“This is the hottest new place on lower Queen Anne. What used to be a children’s clothing store is now a huge hall with long tables, high wood ceilings and a beer list as long as Queen Anne Avenue. This place is great for large groups, or small groups who want to meet friends – because you’ll end up sharing a table. Order different beers so you get different steins and try multiple things. Oh, and the pretzel. You’ll need that cheese dip. This is a don’t-miss spot.” – as recommended by Seattle local Carly Avery

“This dreamy cafe is located inside an old house, tucked away in a quaint corner of the neighborhood. Looking for homemade rhubarb coffee cake, brie and apple panini and a great cup of coffee? Take a seat, unfold your paper and enjoy the ever-constant slow sunny Sunday morning vibe this cafe has to offer.” – as recommended by Seattle local Caroline Myers

“Possibly the best view in all of Seattle is from the patio at Westward! Pair that will impossibly fresh oysters, a champagne cocktail (or three!) and a few friends around the fire pit, and I’d say you’ve got a pretty perfect evening. The menu outside is limited to lighter snack-style options, so if you want a full brunch, lunch or dinner, go the extra step and make reservations for inside. If you’re on a boat, feel free to dock and check out their Little Gull Grocery for growlers to go and warm wool blankets.” – as recommended by Seattle local Wendy Miller

“Morsel is a special treat that will please both the fast and foodie crowds. The University District staple slings breakfast sandwiches on a variety of its homemade biscuits and features a tomato jam that might just ruin the way you look at ketchup forever. Get here early as this spot tends to attract a line, but one bite into a Morsel breakfast sandwich, and you won’t mind having waited that extra 10 minutes.” – as recommended by Seattle local Kade Krichko

“”Seattle has a beach?” That’s usually the question I get when I say I’m at the beach, or take a photo of the awesome sailboat-lined shore views. Take a walk down the Burke Gilman Trail, pass the Ballard Locks and enjoy the salt-water air as you make your way to Golden Gardens. You can drive the mile, but beware: Parking is hectic on a nice day. There are gorgeous views of the Olympics from across the water, and you’re sure to see more than a couple of cute dogs paddling their ways through the water. Plop down on a bench or dig your toes in the sand (yes, real sand!) for a nice escape from the busy core of Ballard.” – as recommended by Seattle local Alex McEntire

“Caffe Vita holds the top spot as far as Seattle coffee goes. Example: Securing a job as a barista in Seattle often requires being ‘Caffe Vita-trained,’ even at shops besides Caffe Vita. With plenty of locations throughout the city, Vita’s your best bet for a flawless cup of joe. The Capitol Hill location is especially overflowing with hardcore, coffee-guzzling hipsters — it’s a true Seattle scene.” – as recommended by Seattle local Kali Swenson

“A fixture in the nightlife scene that rolls along Tenth Avenue and Madison Street, bowling alley/pool hall The Garage has a grassroots feel to it and exudes a cool local vibe that makes it an ideal first date spot or the perfect place to take the kickball team after a victory. Built in the shell of an old Plymouth dealership, The Garage has a great bar and a kickass menu to keep your hunger pangs at bay while you deal with the more primal urge to hurl a heavy object at other objects. The day of the week dictates bowling prices, but at $12/lane, the daily happy hour special (3-7 p.m.) is always your best bet. Friday and Saturday nights ($30/lane) are a bit tougher, and you’re likely out of luck without a reservation. Pool tables are $6/hour on the same happy hour, and $15 during those prime time weekend hours. So for weekend fun, be sure to call ahead!” – as recommended by Seattle local Anders Mickelson